Jack Macrae and Josh Dunkley (29 possessions each) led the way in the midfield, Bailey Smith extended his game time and Matt Suckling curtailed the influence of Saints’ defender Dylan Roberton in the second half.

The game was relatively even after St Kilda kicked the first three goals, with each side kicking 10 goals after quarter time.

The Bulldogs were most productive in the third term, when they kicked five goals to three and hit the lead when Schache kicked his second just before three-quarter-time.

The Dogs were just three points behind at the 22-minute mark of the final term, before the Saints kicked away late.

With the pre-season now complete, the Bulldogs will prepare for their Round 1 clash with Sydney at Marvel Stadium on Saturday, March 23.